LESLEY TREWHITT AND JOHN BROOKER SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN ALNWICK AND NEWCASTLE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Alnwick and Newcastle, a couple involved in a prolonged and systematic campaign of child abuse has been brought to justice. Lesley Trewhitt, aged 56, from Green Batt, Alnwick, Northumberland, and John Brooker, aged 68, from Lansdowne Gardens, Newcastle, were both convicted of heinous crimes committed against a young victim during the 1990s.

The court proceedings revealed that the abuse took place across the Northallerton and Hartlepool areas, with the victim subjected to a series of deeply troubling acts. Prosecutor Patricia Docherty detailed how Trewhitt, a former nurse, engaged in sexual activities with the child, while Brooker, a retired consultant anaesthetist, participated in a range of depraved acts. The evidence presented painted a picture of a couple who, despite their separation, collaborated in inflicting harm on the same victim over an extended period.

During the hearing at Teesside Crown Court, both defendants sat with their heads bowed, visibly distressed as the evidence was read out. Brooker admitted to four counts of indecent assault and two counts of indecency with a child, acknowledging that he had been troubled by his actions for many years. He described himself as a “coward” who believed he could escape justice. Conversely, Trewhitt chose not to comment when questioned about her involvement during police interviews.

Legal representatives for the defendants provided contrasting perspectives. Matthew Donkin, representing Brooker, stated that his client accepted full responsibility and anticipated a prison sentence. He emphasized Brooker’s previously unblemished record and respected career, noting that his reputation had been severely damaged by the allegations. On the other hand, Trewhitt’s lawyer, Tom Finch, described her as “mentally vulnerable” and suggested that Brooker was the primary instigator. Finch referenced a psychiatric report indicating that Trewhitt felt “in awe” of Brooker and sought to please him, expressing remorse for her inability to resist.

Judge Simon Hickey delivered a firm verdict, underscoring the gravity of the crimes. He stated, “I cannot lose sight of the fact that both of you were abusing the same victim at the same time and for a significant number of years so you cannot be divorced from what the other was doing – you knew exactly what you were doing.” The judge also dismissed Trewhitt’s claim that Brooker was the ringleader, emphasizing that both individuals shared responsibility for the abuse.

As a result, John Brooker was sentenced to five years in prison, while Lesley Trewhitt received a sentence of four and a half years. The case has left a lasting impact on the communities of Alnwick and Newcastle, highlighting the devastating effects of long-term child abuse and the importance of justice for victims.